…backs Makinde, seeks urgent rescue

By Esther Onyegbula

The Oyo State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has condemned the abduction of pupils, students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, describing the incident as a brutal attack on humanity, education and peaceful coexistence.

The group, in a statement jointly signed by its President, Okechukwu Nwabunike, and Executive Secretary, Promise Aja, expressed deep sorrow over the attack on Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities, saying the incident had thrown affected families and residents into grief and fear.

Ohanaeze described the mass abduction as a heartbreaking and barbaric act targeted at innocent children and educators pursuing knowledge and national development.
The organisation said: “We stand in solidarity with the families of the victims and the people of Oyo State at this difficult time.”
It added that the entire Ohanaeze structure remained deeply disturbed by what it called a criminal assault on innocent citizens.

The socio-cultural body also condemned the killing of Mr. Michael Oyedokun, a mathematics teacher reportedly murdered by the abductors, whose death was confirmed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, after a disturbing video surfaced online.
Ohanaeze described the killing as the height of cruelty and a grim reflection of the ruthless nature of the kidnappers.
According to Nwabunike, the abduction represents a direct assault on peace, education and societal stability, stressing that Nigerians must unite in prayers and support efforts aimed at securing the release of those still in captivity.

He extended condolences to the family of the slain teacher and sympathised with relatives of other victims affected by the tragedy.
The group also condoled with the families of security personnel, including soldiers, operatives of the Amotekun Corps and local vigilantes, who reportedly lost their lives during rescue operations.
Throwing its weight behind the Makinde administration, the organisation said the governor had continued to demonstrate commitment toward protecting lives and maintaining security across the state.

Ohanaeze noted that Oyo State had not previously witnessed such a devastating incident and called for urgent and practical measures to forestall future occurrences.
The body advocated stronger community-based security arrangements and reinforced safety measures in schools to better protect students and teachers from criminal attacks.
It further urged residents of the affected communities and the general public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence that could aid rescue efforts.

The organisation warned against the circulation of sensitive information capable of jeopardising ongoing security operations, insisting that vigilance, intelligence sharing and public restraint remain vital in tackling insecurity.
Ohanaeze also appealed to Igbo communities across the South-West to support host communities through prayers, solidarity and humanitarian assistance to affected families.

The group called on the police, military and other security agencies to deploy all available resources toward rescuing the abductees and ensuring that those behind the attack are apprehended and prosecuted.
“Insecurity can only be defeated through national unity and collective resolve.

“We continue to pray for the safe return of these abductees and for the exposure and defeat of those behind this evil act,” Nwabunike stated.